Manila, Philippines — The Philippines has once again cemented its place as a global tourism leader after winning six major awards at the 2025 World Travel Awards (WTA) Asia and Oceania Gala Ceremony, the Department of Tourism (DOT) announced on Tuesday.
Among the country’s standout recognitions was Clark Freeport Zone’s win as Asia’s Leading Meetings and Conference Destination, highlighting Central Luzon’s growing reputation as a premier hub for business events and international gatherings.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the awards underscore not only the Philippines’ natural beauty but also the enduring warmth and hospitality of its people — a defining feature of the country’s tourism success.
“These awards reaffirm the Philippines’ place among the world’s premier destinations,” Frasco said. “More than the recognition, this is a celebration of our people — the guides, hospitality workers, weavers, boatmen, and countless others whose warmth and resilience continue to inspire travelers from around the globe.”
The Philippines was named Asia’s Leading Beach Destination for the eighth time, Asia’s Leading Dive Destination for the seventh consecutive year, and Asia’s Leading Island Destination for the second year in a row.
The Department of Tourism itself was also honored as Asia’s Leading Tourist Board, a recognition of its efforts to promote a sustainable, inclusive, and globally competitive tourism industry.
Adding to the country’s triumphs, Boracay was once again recognized as Asia’s Leading Luxury Island Destination, reaffirming its status as one of the region’s most iconic tropical escapes.
The annual WTA gala, often described as the “Oscars of the travel industry,” gathered tourism leaders and government officials from across Asia and Oceania to celebrate excellence in hospitality and destination management.
Expo 2025 Osaka Recognition
Further elevating the country’s global profile, the Philippine Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka earned the Silver Award for Exhibition Design from the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) — the body that oversees World Expos.
The award honors self-built pavilions with plots under 1,500 square meters that demonstrate exceptional creativity, craftsmanship, and storytelling. Featuring handwoven panels from all 18 regions and interactive exhibits blending heritage and innovation, the pavilion has drawn over one million visitors since opening in April.
Frasco said the award reflects Filipino artistry and innovation on the global stage.
“This recognition celebrates the creativity of the Filipino people and our growing influence in global culture and design,” she said.
Key elements of the pavilion will soon be repatriated to the National Museum of the Philippines and select regional sites, with some set to be featured in the ASEAN Tourism Forum and Travex to be held in Cebu in January 2026.
